Dragons’ Den star Steven Bartlett, BBC newsreader Clive Myrie and British film director Fredi Nwaka are among speakers at the UK Black Business Show this week.
The London-based conference – part of Black Business Week – was founded in 2017 by Raphael Sofoluke after he witnessed a lack of representation at events and panel discussions.
Eight years on and the show, which is backed by brands such as JP Morgan, HSBC, Moody’s and Citi, is now the biggest of its kind in the UK and Europe and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
On Saturday, October 19, the bosses of some of the UK’s biggest businesses will gather at ExCeL London – a 100-acre site on the northern quay of the Royal Victoria Dock – to share insights and business advice with those attending.
“At the heart of Black Business Week is a commitment to develop, power and recharge the black community through a diverse line-up of events led by industry leaders and experts,” said Mr Sofoluke. “Why do these events matter? Because they are more than just gatherings they are a catalyst for change.”
The event will include talks, workshops, exhibits, interactive panels, seminars and networking opportunities. Exhibitors at this year’s event include big-name brands such as Amazon, BBC, Goldman Sachs and BP.
There will also be a competition, run by Lloyds Bank, that will see four black-owned businesses pitching live for a chance to win a range of support.
“The UK Black Business Show will not shy away from addressing difficult topics, rather we look to open up people’s minds to new ideas by creating opportunities for our attendees to learn and develop,” the shows website states.
“We look to promote businesses and business leaders who aspire to inspire more black women and men to make a positive difference to the economy and the world at large.”
To see a full line-up of speakers or to book tickets to the event, visit the UK Black Business Show website.